Rubber Band Car
Project Snapshot
Finally, a rubber band-powered car that works the way you expect: fast, far-traveling, and fun!
Modify the design to make it race to the finish line, or add extra weight to increase its momentum and overall travel distance!
Click to expand
Tools and Materials
The Engineering Creation Kit has everything you need for this project and many more from STEM Inventions, or get the supplies in bulk:
- Large Wheel Sets
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7" Rubber bands
Tips and Troubleshooting
If the car isn't going very far, then...
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Try winding up the rubber bands more.
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Check for excessive friction, such as hot glue inside the straws, the wheels rubbing against the frame or straws, etc.
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There might be too much weight. If you added extra weight, try removing some.
If the car isn't rolling in a straight line, then...
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The wheels aren’t aligned. Remove and reattach the wheels to make the axels parallel with each other.
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Try releasing the car with the drive wheels in front.
If the drive wheels are spinning in place before the car starts moving, then...
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Make sure the drive wheels have rubber bands on them.
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The rubber band might be wound up too tight. Try winding the rubber band around the drive wheels less.